Things You Should Know Before Buying A Welsh Corgi

Things You Should Know Before Buying A Welsh Corgi

For those who think they have probably never seen a Welsh Corgi, they are probably wrong, and the easiest way to explain what one looks like is to take a look at the Queen of England. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has owned more than 30 Corgis during her reign, and her beloved Corgis have been included in many of her pictures, as well as appearing in statues and even coins! Let us take a much closer look at this breed that is fit for a Queen to find out more about them, and if the Corgi really is the dog for you.

Firstly it would be prudent to mention there are actually two types of Welsh Corgi, and even though they are quite similar, there are a couple of ways to tell them apart. The Queen’s preference seems to be the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, while the other type is called the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. The main differences between the two breeds are that the Pembroke has straighter legs, and doesn’t have quite as long a body as the Cardigan, and the Pembroke has a much more wedge shaped head with ears smaller and closer together than the Cardigan.

Once you decide you want to own a Corgi, you should investigate both types simply because it will come down to what look you prefer. Welsh Corgis are very intelligent, loyal, obedient, sturdy, and are willing to please, making them very easy to train, and they do very well at advance obedience too. Probably the hardest part of their training is to prevent them from ‘herding’ people by nipping at their ankles, so you need to be a firm, but patient trainer. In addition, it is recommended that you take them to training school early on and socialise them well.

Believe it or not, these small, sturdy dogs were originally used for herding cattle, sheep, and even horses, which many find very surprising. Although they are rarely used now for herding, that working instinct is still with them, which is another very good reason to train them well – they will literally lap it up! The Welsh Corgis are a particular healthy breed, and most Corgis end up dying of either cancer or old age. Moreover, they can live up to a little over 12 years of age.

This particular breed, although being small, does need plenty of exercise, and even though they will do well in apartments, you will need to ensure that they have a nearby park where they can take daily walks. Because they are a very active breed, if they become lazy due to being in a small apartment with little exercise, they can be prone to obesity. Many Corgi owners will recommend having more than one, especially if they are to be left alone for long periods of time due to work or shopping trips, as this can help prevent separation issues.

Although quite low on the health problems list, it is always recommended to visit your vet regularly for checkups and inoculations. Health issues worth a mention are possible Glaucoma, and some back disorders due to their extra body length and short legs. Shedding occurs twice a year, and their coats are easy maintenance due to the soft medium water resistant coat, so they just needs a brush with a firm bristle brush, and you only need to bathe them when necessary as the coat maintains itself quite well.

Welsh Corgis are the breed of Queens and Kings, and it is easy to see why, in fact Princess Diana referred to them as a “moving carpet” because they look like little clouds hovering around your feet. They are easy maintenance, and if bought from a reputable and responsible breeder (which you should always try to do), you shouldn’t have any major health concerns. Train your Corgi well from a young age and all you will need to do then is simply enjoy your wonderful Welsh Corgi.